Abstract
Aim: Despite the essential value of housing, data shows that approximately one billion
people worldwide, particularly in Africa and parts of Asia, live in poor-quality housing,
unhealthy environments, and even slums because of uncompleted housing projects.
There is limited understanding of the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) that influence
the successful completion of housing projects. The aim of this study is to identify critical
factors affecting the success of housing projects in the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE).
Methodology: The study used a quantitative research design to collect and analyse
data. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews with industry experts,
project managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders involved in housing projects.
To prioritize and rank the CSFs, a Multi-criteria Decision-making (MCDM) technique
was utilized. The first stage involved the identification of at least twenty (20) CSFs by
reviewing the literature of the available studies on housing CSFs conducted to date.
These twenty CSFs were refined and ranked through a survey with experts within the
housing industry at the CoE. The study's sample consists of twenty industry experts.
A purposive sampling method was used to select the participants.
Results: Project Managers constitute the largest group. The majority of participants
had over 16 years of experience. Results indicated that the majority of participants
agreed that CSF 20 - "Effective support by the government through availing bulk
infrastructure - roads, sewage and water supply systems, electrical grids, and other
utilities” - is important to the indicators that guarantee successful completion of
housing projects in the CoE.
Recommendations: Further research should explore the development of a
comprehensive housing policy, the impact of policy approaches on affordability, urban
planning, and sustainability, and the role of top management support. It should also
examine stakeholder engagement strategies, public-private partnerships, and
government support for infrastructure. Longitudinal studies on the long-term impacts
of housing projects on community development, resident satisfaction, and economic
growth can provide a more nuanced understanding of the factors driving success.